The Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art in Bentonville, Arkansas has set an opening date for its expansion, which will double the institution’s size.
The grand opening of the expanded museum, including new galleries, educational facilities and community spaces, will be held on 6 and 7 June 2026.
Crystal Bridges has remained open throughout the construction period, despite also reinstalling nearly every existing gallery and adding a new core experience that takes guests on a thematic journey through American life, landscape, and spirit.
Alice Walton, founder of Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art, said, “This announcement marks an historic day for Crystal Bridges and the entire campus, where art, architecture, nature, education, and wellness now come together to inspire people, enhance their wellbeing, and build a greater understanding of the American experience.”
The 114,000-square-foot expansion is by Safdie Architects, the designers of the original 200,000-square-foot building.
Major art donations for expansion
“With the addition of diverse galleries, workshops, and gardens, the expansion exponentially expands the museum’s mission of serving as a centerpiece of communal and cultural life,” said Moshe Safdie, founding partner of Safdie Architects.
As well as setting an opening date, the Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art announced two major gifts of art.
Olivia Walton, chairperson of Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art, and her husband Tom Walton have donated 18 works, all by women artists.
Collectors Candace and Michael Humphreys have given 200 artworks by over 100 artists.
“It is an honor to support the museum’s vital mission during this exciting period of its evolution,” the Humphreys’ said.
Rod Bigelow, executive director of the Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art, said: “Alice Walton founded this museum with the goal of making great American art more accessible to people in our region and beyond.
“Now, under Olivia Walton’s next-generation leadership, this vision has continued to exceed all expectations.”
Images courtesy of Crystal Bridges and Safdie Architects
